HARRISBURG – Rep. Marcy Toepel (R-Montgomery) today joined her colleagues in a joint session of the General Assembly as Gov. Tom Wolf delivered his budget address. She released the following statement on the governor’s vision:

“In his budget address today, the governor highlighted the need to increase opportunities for Pennsylvanians of all ages, including adults who wish to change industries or increase their earning power. House Republicans have been focusing on workforce training, specifically job opportunities in the high-paying trades, so I look forward to seeing what can be accomplished with his support.

“Men and women who pursue technical education and subsequently earn family-sustaining wages will also benefit the industries that are currently handicapped because they can’t fill much-needed positions. Everyone would benefit from an investment in the Commonwealth’s career readiness.

“As we proceed through the budget process, it will be important to remember how Pennsylvania as a whole could be positively impacted through state spending. I’m encouraged that this year’s proposal did not include any broad-based tax increases, as we’re closer to a budget that the General Assembly can support. Of course, we still must lend a discerning eye to each proposed line item, as spending cannot continue to grow faster than the rate of revenue.”